“We are on the floor for a place in Europe. So let’s dance. Now we are closer to the Champions League, but there’s a long way to go and anything can still happen,” commented Guidolin in a press conference.

“All we can do is try to pick up as many points as possible. The competition is fierce and we must fight tooth and nail to stay up there as long as possible. At the same time, we are in the last 16 of the Europa League and must concentrate 1000 per cent on both competitions.

“It is gratifying and also a great motivator to be here. Dreaming is wonderful, but at the same time we must keep out feet on the ground and focus on one opponent at a time.”

When asked whether he had thought about a Scudetto challenge to Milan and Juventus, the tactician changed tack.

“Before going to Bologna I told my players to improve their away form, maintaining their humility and looking for a positive result. In my view with humility, rather than a low profile, we can maintain our calm and concentration game after game.”

“This was my second stint. In the first I was young and inherited a very strong team that played good football. These experiences allowed me to reach my management maturity. The affection I feel from the Udinese environment is mutual and important, as it allows me to work at my best – better than in other clubs.”